UNBEATEN ladder-leader Warrnambool is hardly a side rivals look forward to playing.
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But sixth-placed Port Fairy is itching to host the Blues today at Gardens Oval.
Seagulls coach Brett Evans and his players are using the match as a test.
The Seagulls have three wins and three losses from their six games but a round four hammering at the hands of reigning premier Koroit was their worst effort, kicking just one goal to three-quarter-time.
“The last time we came up against a top-two side we really let ourselves down,” Evans said.
“We are aware of what went wrong so this is a great test for us.”
He said the 80-point loss to Koroit was a “wake-up call” for his players.
“We’ve come out of it in a better spot and guys are starting to enjoy their footy,” he said.
“Everything has been positive since that round. We know we are up against a great side. We know we have to work on what works for us best.”
Evans said he and his players were keen to make a statement after the Koroit loss as they looked to make a run at the five.
The Seagulls will have to come up with a different forward set-up as their leading goalkicker Sam McCartney is out with a hamstring complaint.
Warrnambool named an unchanged line-up, with Blues coach Scott Carter declaring gun recruit Tim McIntyre a certain starter next week against Terang Mortlake after hurting a hamstring in round five.
Half-back Liam Hoy resumes after an ankle injury in the reserves today, while fellow defender Sam Wilson should return next week.
“I think Port Fairy can be a pretty dangerous opposition at home, especially if you let them get into the game early,” Carter said.
“We will be looking for a quick start.”